Planning your days in Koh Phangan?
I’ve got you covered because for a few months each year I live in Koh Phangan. So what better way to get informed than from a quasi-local.
Koh Phangan is the answer to island paradise: powdery white sandy beaches spilling into clear tropical water, streets lined with coconut palms, waterfront huts, hip cafes, wild jungle and beach parties, almost no cars and endless fun.
With that said, if you are still wondering if Koh Phangan is worth visiting, I would say you’d regret if you didn’t, that is for sure.
About Koh Phangan
The gorgeous island known for it’s full moon party and wellness retreats forms part of the Chumphon archipelago and neighbors with the tiny is Koh Tao in the north is Koh Samui in the South.
Below are a few commonly asked questions about Koh Phangan.
Is Koh Phangan just the full moon party?
Many tourists and travelers have the misconception that Koh Phangan is just a big, unorganized party island where only the wildest backpackers go for the full moon party. This is a very common generalization but far away from what Koh Phangan really is.
The full moon party is a once a month event and concentrated on Haad Rin beach in a rather isolated part of Koh Phangan. Unless you stay in Haad Rin exactly on the full moon party day, you won’t even know about the event.
What is the best way to get to Koh Phangan?
The best way to get to Koh Phangan will depending where you are coming from. For long distance trips such as from Bangkok, Phuket or Krabi, all-inclusive bus+ferry tickets are a convenient and affordable option.
The closest airport is on the nearby Koh Samui island. There’s direct flights from major destination and then it is just a 30 minute speed boat from Samui to Koh Phangan. Alternatively, fly to Surat Thani as flights are much cheaper, then take a ferry or catamaran from there.
When to avoid Koh Phangan?
The months to avoid in Koh Phangan are ⤵
– October to December – Rainy Season
– April to August – Hottest months
While Koh Phangan can be enjoyed year-round, certain months are more suitable than others.
October to December: these are the peak rainy months in Koh Phangan. However, on most days the rain comes in heavy bursts in late afternoon and only lasts around 1 or 2 hours.
April to September: this is when temperatures begin to soar reaching their peak between May and August which can result in unbearable heat. Also the sea levels are low at this time of year due to yearly tides.
Mid December to February/March: these are the best months to visit Koh Phangan for nice sunny days with comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. The weeks over Christmas and New Year are also the busiest so make sure to book any hotels and transport in advance.
How many days do you need in Koh Phangan?
Koh Phangan is a compact island that allows to be explored in around 2 or 3 days. However, how many days you spend in Koh Phangan will depend a lot on your travel style and what you want to do.
That is because although Koh Phangan is a relatively small island there are loads of things to do. In particular if you are into the whole party scene there is an event happening almost every night. That is apart from the full moon party which happens every month.
But to explore the beaches, hikes, sunsets and just get a feel of the laid back island vibe, 3 days is enough.
Choosing a place to stay in Koh Phangan
Properly choosing where to stay in Koh Phangan is an important decision that will influence your overall experience on the island. Even though the island isn’t that big it is still important to stay in a part of the island that aligns with your travel style and itinerary.
Below is an overview for the different areas to stay in Koh Phangan ⤵
Haad-Rin
Haad Rin is the most popular beach on Koh Phangan. Known for its stunning crystal-clear waters, it’s often considered the island’s finest beach. This area is also home to the monthly Full Moon Party, making it a lively spot. Despite being relatively small, it boasts plenty of restaurants and bars, all easily accessible on foot. If you’re seeking tranquility, it’s best to steer clear during Full Moon Party dates.
Thongsala
Thongsala is the port town on Koh Phangan and the island’s most developed area. However, that doesn’t mean it’s overcrowded or overly bustling. It’s also the arrival point for ferries and offers a variety of amenities, including restaurants, bars, trendy cafes, local food spots, and even a night market.
Sri Thanu
Sri Thanu is the answer if you are looking for the coolest part of the island. There a nice combination of hip cafes, local eateries and western restaurants. Zen beach is a popular hangout where you can enjoy breathtaking sunsets while sipping on a cheap (but good) cocktail from the laid back beach bar. On Friday’s there is an instrumental event spontaneous music with bongs and such.
Chaloklum
Up North Chaloklum is a traditional fishing village with a long pontoon in the middle of a nice beach. There’s a handful of restaurants most of which serve fish just brought in by the locals. It’s a great option if you want to go sort of off grid but still have a few dining options.
Thong Nai Pan
This part of the island is rather isolated and is where you’ll find exclusive resorts facing a gorgeous beach with minimal development. It’s is sort of a resort area with all restaurants and bars within a 5 minute walk. 5 minutes away, the town offers a few cheaper option.
Things to do in Koh Phangan
For some tourists the gorgeous beaches are the main draw, and for others its the entertainment such as the full moon party. But there is quite a few other things to do in Koh Phangan like treks and also a few waterfalls. There is also a number of events happening in Koh Phangan almost on a daily basis. Keep reading to find out what you could be up to during your vacation in Koh Phangan.
Beaches
Good to know
Koh Phangan is surrounded with almost uninterrupted beaches that wrap around the island. That means that unless you purposely stay inland you’re bound to have a beach within just a short walk. Like anything else, some beaches are nicer than others.
During the rainy months beaches in Koh Phangan may not always be as inviting as you’d expect mainly due to weather conditions which affect the sea conditions including clarity. Also, apart from the daily tides, Koh Phangan experiences a yearly tidal cycle. Starting from February/March, water levels begin to recede. Some beaches end up completely drained out or are 2 feet for a long distance.
Haad Rin
The southern tip of Koh Phangan is home to Haad Rin. It’s where the full moon party is held and is also once of the most beautiful beaches on Phangan. It’s a big, wide beach where you can expect crystal clear calm waters when conditions are in favor.
Zen Beach
Just a short walk along a dirt path from the main road in SriThanu and there is Zen beach. It’s a relatively small beach with a small bar serving great cocktails. Come here for sunsets and for the great vibe on Friday sunset time until dark.
Chaloklum
Up North the seaside village in Chaloklum is a big beach with pier in the centre. It’s a local area and not very touristy. Most days the conditions here are nice and calm due to the curved shape of the bay creating a natural barrier from currents and waves.
Events and Happenings in Koh Phangan
If you want to party, you’re not going to be short on options. In this Koh Phangan travel guide I have included a list of events and other places to go for a drink, dance and have fun. Just so you, there is some kind of party almost every day of the week.
Why Nam Beach
How about a beach party on one of the most beautiful beaches in Koh Phangan? Why Nam is like one of the best kept secrets in Koh Phangan. It’s remote and only accessible via a 15 minute boat ride from Haad Rin. Every Tuesday night the beach gears for a cool beach party which mostly attracts an older crowd like me: mid 30’s.
Zen Beach
Another beach party, but much tamer, happens every Friday at sunset time. As the sun starts to go down talented local musicians armed with non electronic instruments gather around on the beach and begin playing spontaneously creating cool rhythms and beats. It a chill atmosphere and attracts a lot of people. This micro party ends by around 9pm on most days.
Guys Bar
If Zen beach got you started and you want to keep going, then head down to Haad Rin. You’ll need to take one of the boats to get there
Waterfall Party
If you can’t make for the full moon party date, then make sure to add the waterfall party to your. It’s an anticipated event that has been going for 14 years and attracting party goers ever since. You’ll get to experience a magical moments as you dance under the stars surrounded in nature. The waterfall party usually falls on a Wednesday but it is best to check the exact dates on the official site.
Retro Mountain Party
Far away from pretty much anything there is the Retro Mountain jungle club. It’s literally a club up in the mountains and overlooking Koh Phangan. As the name suggests it’s a sort of retro inspired funky design. Make sure to check when they have an event.
Rise Ecstatic Dance
Koh Phangan is a polarizing island because on one hand there’s the wild party scene but there is also a massive community of those into yoga, spiritualism, vegan food and the likes. The Rise Ecstatic Dance is a reflection of these 2 aspects in Koh Phangan. It’s a party, but different. It’s held every Sunday at Pyramid Yoga under their massive pyramid structure. And what is it? Well it’s a place which focuses on expression through dance. Everything goes, just feel the rhythm and be you. Alcohol is not allowed here.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai, often referred to as Thai boxing is a traditional martial arts that uses stand-up striking, sweeps, and various grabbing techniques. It’s a popular event among locals and foreigners alike. There’s a match at least once a week. View Muay Thai event dates and tickets.
Outdoors
Koh Phangan is home to a handful of outdoor activities including hikes and waterfalls. Just keep in mind that the waterfalls in Koh Phangan are relatively small. Some barely have a pool below. Also, the falls are at their best just after the rainy season around January and February.
Read more about waterfalls in Koh Phangan
Another interesting activity in bottle beach. Getting to the beach requires trekking through the lush landscape and the direction indicated by bottles tied to the trees. This is where the name originally came from. At the end you’ll be met with a gorgeous tropical beach with powdery white sand and trees creating patches of shade.
Where to eat in Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan may be a laid back island but when it comes to places to eat there is no shortage. If you like healthy or vegan food, you’re spilt for choice with dozens of cool cafes especially in Srithanu. There is no shortage of western food including Italian cuisine and steakhouses. There’s also open air food courts which are a great place to hang out and have a cheap beer and food. Here are my favorite places.
Phantip Night Market: For a selection of cheap local on western food from various stalls.
Outlaws Saloon: For the best steak on the island and Sunday roasts.
Deli Devi: It’s vegan and really good (I’m not a vegan)
Srithanu Market: A nice chill open air food court with cheap beer, meals and smoothies.
Basilico or Mandolino Pizzeria: For the best pizza and Italian cuisine in Koh Phangan
HEY, just so you know…
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